Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar has issued a clarification over his remarks during a courtroom exchange with rights activist and lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, saying his words were taken “out of context.” The matter surfaced in a hearing on removing activist Mahrang Baloch’s name from the Exit Control List, where Mazari allegedly called the judge a “dictator.” Justice Dogar warned her of possible contempt, later clarifying that he only sought to advise her as an elder, not threaten her career.
Justice Dogar maintained that his remarks were twisted into controversy, stressing Mazari was “just like a daughter” and that he was reminding her to avoid personal criticism while disagreeing with judicial decisions. He also dismissed reports of saying he would “get hold of her,” clarifying he only asked her husband, lawyer Hadi Ali Chatha, to guide her or face contempt proceedings. Mazari, however, rejected the explanation, accusing the chief justice of harassment and “sexist” remarks, asserting she is neither a child nor his daughter but a professional lawyer representing her client. The clash has reignited debate on judicial conduct, gender sensitivity, and freedom of expression in Pakistan’s courts.
